77+ Top Best Winter Crafts for kids

When the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s no better time to dive into some of the Best Winter Crafts for Kids. Crafting during the winter months isn’t just a way to pass the time—it’s an opportunity to spark creativity, enhance fine motor skills, and strengthen bonds with loved ones. Whether it’s snipping snowflakes, painting pinecones, or creating charming holiday decorations, these activities provide a world of benefits for children while filling your home with handmade warmth.

Engaging kids in crafting nurtures their imagination and encourages problem-solving while giving them a break from screens. It’s also a fantastic way to practice coordination and fine motor skills as they cut, glue, and assemble their creations. Beyond the developmental perks, crafting creates lasting memories, bringing families together for cozy moments filled with laughter and fun.

Best Winter Crafts for kids

DIY Paper Snowflakes

Create delicate paper snowflakes to decorate windows, walls, or holiday cards. It’s a classic winter craft that never goes out of style.

 

Materials Needed:

• White paper
• Scissors
• Glitter (optional)
• Glue (optional)

Steps:

1. Start with a square piece of paper. Fold it diagonally to form a triangle.
2. Fold the triangle in half again to make a smaller triangle.
3. Fold the triangle into thirds, bringing the right corner towards the center and the left corner over it.
4. Trim off the excess paper at the top to make a straight edge.
5. Use scissors to cut small shapes along the folded edges. Be creative with patterns!
6. Carefully unfold the paper to reveal your snowflake. Add glitter for a sparkling effect if desired.

Pinecone Bird Feeders

This craft doubles as a fun activity and a way to help birds during the winter months.

Materials Needed:

• Pinecones
• Peanut butter or sunflower butter
• Birdseed
• String

Steps:

1. Tie a piece of string to the top of a pinecone for hanging.
2. Spread peanut butter or sunflower butter all over the pinecone.
3. Roll the sticky pinecone in birdseed until it’s completely covered.
4. Hang the feeder on a tree branch and watch the birds enjoy their treat.

Cotton Ball Snowmen

Bring snowmen indoors with this fluffy and adorable craft.

Materials Needed:

• White cotton balls
• Cardstock or cardboard
• Glue
• Black and orange markers or paper (for face)
• Small buttons or sequins

Steps:

1. Draw three circles on the cardstock to form a snowman outline.
2. Glue cotton balls inside each circle to fill the snowman.
3. Add buttons or sequins down the middle for decoration.
4. Use markers or cut-out paper shapes to create the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Handprint Mittens

Capture little handprints in a cute mitten craft.

Materials Needed:

• Construction paper
• Scissors
• Markers
• String or ribbon
• Glitter (optional)

Steps:

1. Trace your child’s hands onto construction paper and cut out the shapes.
2. Decorate the handprint mittens with markers, glitter, or stickers.
3. Punch holes at the wrist of each mitten and string a ribbon through them.
4. Hang the mittens as festive decorations.

Felt Penguin Puppets

Create adorable penguin puppets for storytelling and playtime.

Materials Needed:

• Black, white, and orange felt
• Glue
• Googly eyes
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut a penguin body shape out of black felt.
2. Cut a smaller white oval for the belly and glue it onto the black body.
3. Add an orange felt beak and feet at the appropriate places.
4. Glue googly eyes above the beak to finish the face.
5. Allow everything to dry before using the penguin as a puppet.

Winter-Themed Salt Dough Ornaments

Create keepsake ornaments to decorate your tree or give as gifts.

Materials Needed:

• Salt dough (1 cup salt, 2 cups flour, 1 cup water)
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Paints and brushes

Steps:

1. Mix salt, flour, and water to form dough. Knead until smooth.
2. Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to create winter shapes like snowflakes, stars, and mittens.
3. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top of each ornament for hanging.
4. Bake at 200°F (93°C) for 2-3 hours until hard.
5. Once cooled, paint the ornaments and add a ribbon.

DIY Popsicle Stick Snowflakes

Transform simple popsicle sticks into beautiful snowflake decorations.

Materials Needed:

• Popsicle sticks
• Paint (white, silver, or blue)
• Glitter
• Glue

Steps:

1. Arrange popsicle sticks in a snowflake pattern, crossing them in the center.
2. Glue the sticks together and let them dry.
3. Paint the snowflakes and sprinkle glitter on the wet paint for sparkle.
4. Once dry, hang them up as decorations.

Tissue Paper Icicles

These shimmering icicles are perfect for window decorations.

Materials Needed:

• Tissue paper (white, silver, or blue)
• Glue
• String or ribbon

Steps:

1. Cut strips of tissue paper in varying lengths.
2. Twist each strip gently to create an icicle shape.
3. Glue the tops of the icicles to a string or ribbon.
4. Hang the string across a window or doorway.

Marshmallow Snowman Craft

Use marshmallows to create an edible and fun snowman craft.

Materials Needed:

• Large marshmallows
• Toothpicks
• Candy eyes
• Licorice or pretzels (for arms)
• Chocolate chips

Steps:

1. Stack three large marshmallows on a toothpick to form a snowman.
2. Add candy eyes and a chocolate chip nose using a small dab of melted chocolate.
3. Attach pretzel or licorice arms on either side of the middle marshmallow.
4. Display or enjoy as a treat!

Snowy Pine Tree Art

Create a beautiful snowy forest scene using paint and Q-tips.
Materials Needed:

• Blue and green construction paper
• White paint
• Q-tips
• Glitter (optional)

Steps:

1. Draw or cut out pine tree shapes from green construction paper and glue them onto blue paper.
2. Dip Q-tips into white paint and dot them onto the trees to mimic snow.
3. Add glitter to the snowy areas for extra shimmer.

brushes or cotton swabs

• Blue construction paper

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts shaving cream and white glue in a bowl to create puffy paint.
2. Use a paintbrush or cotton swab to paint three circles (head and body) on blue construction paper.
3. Cut out a hat, buttons, and arms from black paper and a carrot nose from orange paper.
4. Press these pieces into the wet paint to decorate your snowman.
5. Add googly eyes and let the paint dry to create a 3D effect.

Winter-Themed Suncatchers

Brighten up those shorter winter days with colorful suncatchers that reflect light beautifully in your home.

Materials Used:

• Wax paper
• Tissue paper in various colors
• White glue
• Paintbrush
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut tissue paper into small squares or shapes.
2. Spread a thin layer of glue on a piece of wax paper using a paintbrush.
3. Place the tissue paper pieces onto the glue in a fun pattern.
4. Add a second layer of glue on top to secure everything.
5. Once dry, cut the wax paper into desired shapes and hang it in a window.

DIY Pinecone Bird Feeders

Combine crafting with nature by creating bird feeders that bring wildlife to your yard.

Materials Used:

• Large pinecones
• Peanut butter or honey
• Birdseed
• String

Steps:

1. Tie a string securely to the top of each pinecone for hanging.
2. Spread peanut butter or honey all over the pinecone.
3. Roll the pinecone in birdseed until it is fully coated.
4. Hang your finished bird feeder on a tree branch outside and watch the birds enjoy it.

Cotton Ball Penguins

These fluffy cotton ball penguins are an adorable and simple craft for kids to make.

Materials Used:

• Black construction paper
• Cotton balls
• Googly eyes
• Orange construction paper
• Glue

Steps:

1. Cut a penguin body shape out of black construction paper.
2. Glue cotton balls to the center of the body to create the penguin’s fluffy tummy.
3. Add googly eyes and a small orange paper beak to the face.
4. Cut out small orange feet and attach them to the bottom.

Handprint Winter Trees

Create a charming keepsake by making winter trees out of your child’s handprints.

Materials Used:

• White construction paper
• Brown and white paint
• Paintbrushes
• Glitter (optional)

Steps:

1. Paint your child’s hand with brown paint and press it onto the paper to make the tree trunk and branches.
2. Once dry, use a paintbrush to dab white paint onto the branches for snow.
3. Add glitter to the wet white paint for a sparkling effect.

Felt Mitten Garland

Decorate your home with a cozy mitten garland made of felt.

Materials Used:

• Colored felt
• Scissors
• Needle and thread or glue
• Ribbon or string

Steps:

1. Cut mitten shapes out of felt in various colors.
2. Decorate each mitten with smaller felt pieces or embroidery.
3. Sew or glue the mittens onto a long ribbon or string.
4. Hang the garland on a wall or mantle.

Egg Carton Polar Bears

Turn egg cartons into adorable polar bear faces with this upcycled craft.

Materials Used:

• Egg carton cups
• White paint
• Black marker
• Googly eyes
• Glue

Steps:

1. Cut out individual cups from the egg carton.
2. Paint the cups white and let them dry.
3. Attach googly eyes and draw a nose and mouth with a black marker.
4. Use additional carton pieces to create ears and glue them on top.

Snow Globe Jars

Create your own magical snow globe using jars and simple materials.

Materials Used:

• Small mason jars
• Glitter
• Small winter-themed figurines
• Glycerin
• Water
• Glue

Steps:

1. Glue the figurine to the inside of the jar lid.
2. Fill the jar with water and add a few drops of glycerin.
3. Sprinkle in glitter for the “snow.”
4. Screw the lid on tightly and turn the jar upside down.

Paper Plate Snowman Mask

Transform a plain paper plate into a wearable snowman mask.

Materials Used:

• Paper plate
• Markers
• Orange construction paper
• String or elastic
• Hole punch

Steps:

1. Cut out holes for the eyes in the paper plate.
2. Draw a snowman face, leaving space for the nose.
3. Cut a carrot shape from orange paper and attach it to the mask.
4. Punch holes on each side of the plate and attach a string or elastic to wear the mask.

Puffy Paint Snowmen

Use homemade puffy paint to make adorable snowmen that pop off the page. This craft is perfect for exploring textures while embracing a snowy theme.

Materials Used:

• Shaving cream
• White glue
• Black and orange construction paper
• Googly eyes
• Paintbrush
• Blue construction paper

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts of shaving cream and white glue in a bowl to create puffy paint.
2. On a piece of blue construction paper, use the puffy paint to make three stacked circles for the snowman.
3. While the paint is still wet, add googly eyes and a small triangle of orange paper for the carrot nose.
4. Cut small black circles from the construction paper and place them as the buttons and mouth.
5. Let the snowman dry completely. Once dry, the puffy paint will remain raised and fluffy.

Mitten Garland

Create a cheerful mitten garland to decorate your home during the winter months. This craft doubles as a great way to practice tracing and cutting.

Materials Used:

• Colored construction paper
• Pencil
• Scissors
• String or yarn
• Hole punch
• Markers or stickers for decoration

Steps:

1. Trace a mitten shape onto construction paper using a pencil. Create multiple mitten shapes in various colors.
2. Cut out the mitten shapes.
3. Decorate each mitten with markers, stickers, or patterns of your choice.
4. Punch a hole at the top of each mitten and thread them onto a long piece of string.
5. Hang your garland on a wall, mantle, or window for a festive touch.

Ice Lanterns

Bring the sparkle of winter ice indoors by creating ice lanterns. These make beautiful decorations and are fun for kids to make with adult supervision.

Materials Used:

• Balloons
• Water
• Glitter or small decorations
• LED tea lights

Steps:

1. Fill a balloon with water and add a sprinkle of glitter or small decorations inside.
2. Tie the balloon securely and place it in the freezer overnight.
3. Once frozen solid, carefully cut and peel away the balloon.
4. Place the ice orb over an LED tea light to create a glowing ice lantern.
5. Display your lantern in a cool spot to prevent melting.

Winter-Themed Paper Plate Wreath

Transform a simple paper plate into a winter-themed wreath with snowflakes and sparkly accents.

Materials Used:

• Paper plates
• Blue and white paint
• Glitter
• Foam snowflake stickers or cutouts
• Ribbon
• Glue

Steps:

1. Cut out the center of a paper plate to create a ring shape.
2. Paint the plate ring blue or white and sprinkle glitter over the wet paint for sparkle.
3. Once dry, decorate the wreath with foam snowflakes or paper cutouts.
4. Attach a ribbon to the top of the wreath for hanging.
5. Display your finished wreath on a door or wall.

Cotton Ball Penguins

These fluffy penguins are not only adorable but also a fantastic way to explore different textures while crafting.

Materials Used:

• Black construction paper
• Cotton balls
• Glue
• Googly eyes
• Orange paper for beaks and feet

Steps:

1. Cut an oval shape from black construction paper for the penguin’s body.
2. Glue cotton balls onto the oval to create the penguin’s fluffy belly.
3. Add googly eyes above the cotton balls.
4. Cut a small triangle from orange paper for the beak and glue it below the eyes.
5. Add two orange feet at the bottom of the penguin’s body.

Paper Roll Snowy Owls

Upcycle paper rolls into charming snowy owls with simple supplies.

Materials Used:

• Toilet paper rolls
• White paint
• Black and orange markers
• Googly eyes
• Small feathers (optional)

Steps:

1. Paint the paper roll white and let it dry completely.
2. Fold the top of the roll inward on both sides to create the owl’s ears.
3. Draw or glue googly eyes near the top of the roll.
4. Use markers to draw a beak, wings, and snowy patterns.
5. Add small feathers to the sides or top for extra flair.

Snow Globe Jars

Create magical snow globe jars that capture the spirit of winter in a sparkling, shakeable craft.

Materials Used:

• Glass jars with lids
• Distilled water
• Glitter
• Glycerin
• Small plastic figurines or trees
• Glue

Steps:

1. Glue a figurine or small plastic tree to the inside of the jar lid. Let it dry.
2. Fill the jar with distilled water, leaving a little space at the top.
3. Add a few drops of glycerin to make the glitter float slower.
4. Sprinkle in some glitter for the snow effect.
5. Screw the lid on tightly and shake to see your snow globe come to life.

Tips for Crafting with Kids

Crafting with kids can be a fun, creative way to spend time together, allowing children to express themselves while developing fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. However, it can also get messy and chaotic if not planned properly. Below are some practical tips for setting up a mess-free craft station, involving kids of different age groups, and encouraging creativity and personalization.

1. Setting Up a Mess-Free Craft Station

A well-organized and clean crafting area makes the experience enjoyable for everyone.

• Designate a Space: Choose a spot in your home where crafting is allowed—preferably somewhere easy to clean, like a kitchen table or a dedicated corner.
• Protect Surfaces: Cover the table with a plastic tablecloth, old newspaper, or a washable mat.
• Use Storage Bins: Store materials in labeled containers or bins for easy access and cleanup.
• Provide Cleanup Supplies: Keep paper towels, wet wipes, and a small trash bin nearby for quick mess management.
• Limit Supplies: Only bring out the supplies needed for the current project to minimize clutter.

2. Involving Kids of Different Age Groups

Different ages require different approaches to keep all children engaged and safe.

• Toddlers (2–4 years): Use simple, safe, and large materials like chunky crayons, stickers, or non-toxic finger paints. Supervise closely.
• Preschoolers (5–7 years): Provide age-appropriate tools like child-safe scissors, glue sticks, and basic craft kits. Let them practice cutting and assembling.
• Older Kids (8+ years): Offer more complex projects like weaving, sewing, or model-building. Encourage them to work independently and assist younger siblings.
• Collaborative Projects: Choose crafts where everyone can contribute, such as decorating a family banner or making holiday cards together.

3. Encouraging Creativity and Personalization

Fostering creativity helps children build confidence and develop unique problem-solving skills.

• Offer Choices: Let kids choose their colors, materials, and themes to make the project feel personal.
• Provide Open-Ended Materials: Items like pipe cleaners, beads, pompoms, and fabric scraps allow for limitless possibilities.
• Avoid Perfection: Emphasize effort over results. Praise their creativity, not how “perfect” the final product looks.
• Incorporate Their Interests: If a child loves animals, suggest creating animal masks or finger puppets.
• Display Their Work: Show off finished crafts on a wall, fridge, or shelf to celebrate their efforts.

Why Winter Crafts are Fun and Beneficial

Winter crafts are a delightful way to embrace the colder months, combining creativity, warmth, and the joy of making something with your own hands. Whether you’re decorating your home, spending time with loved ones, or simply seeking a cozy indoor activity, crafting can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy. Here are some reasons why winter crafts are both enjoyable and beneficial:

1. Encourage Creativity and Imagination

• Winter crafts allow people of all ages to express themselves artistically.
• From designing snowflake ornaments to painting winter landscapes, the options are limitless.
• Experimenting with colors, textures, and materials fosters innovative thinking and problem-solving.

2. Provide a Cozy Indoor Activity

• Cold, snowy days are perfect for staying indoors with a craft project.
• Creating something with your hands keeps you entertained and relaxed while staying warm.
• It’s a great way to make the most of long winter evenings.

3. Promote Bonding and Togetherness

• Crafting is an excellent group activity for families and friends.
• Sharing ideas and working on projects together strengthens relationships.
• Winter-themed crafts, like making holiday decorations or personalized gifts, create shared memories.

4. Boost Mental Health

• Engaging in arts and crafts can be a form of mindfulness, reducing stress and anxiety.
• The focus required during crafting can have a calming effect and provide a sense of accomplishment.
• Bright, cheerful winter themes can uplift spirits during darker, colder months.

FAQ

What are some easy and Best Winter Crafts for kids for young children?

For younger kids, simple crafts like snowflake cutouts, paper mittens, or handprint snowmen are perfect. These crafts involve minimal supplies and are easy for little hands to manage, fostering creativity and fine motor skills.

How can I make Best Winter Crafts for kids at home ?

You can create Best Winter Crafts for kids using common household materials such as construction paper, glue, scissors, cotton balls, and markers. Try making snow globes with jars, crafting paper snowflakes, or painting winter landscapes with acrylic paints.

Are there any Best Winter Crafts for kids that don’t involve snow?

Yes! Best Winter Crafts for kids can be inspired by the season’s cold weather without snow. Create crafts like hot cocoa mugs, winter animals (like penguins or polar bears), or Christmas ornaments.

Can I make Best Winter Crafts for kids using recycled materials?

Absolutely! You can recycle items such as cardboard, bottle caps, old magazines, and fabric scraps to make unique winter crafts. For example, cardboard can be turned into snowman shapes or animal figures, while bottle caps can be repurposed into tree ornaments.